DIPLOMATIC INITIATIVES FOR PEACE
Four candidates for UN secretary-general audition this week. That's far fewer than in 2016
Four candidates are vying to become the next United Nations Secretary-General. This selection process unfolds in a world marked by deep divisions and a weakened UN. The candidates will face questions from member nations. The race is less crowded than a decade ago, reflecting current geopolitical realities. The United Nations faces challenges in maintaining global peace and security.
Trump says he has 'good news' on Iran, offers no clarity on peace deal
President Trump sees positive signs in Iran peace talks. A ceasefire in the Middle East conflict may be extended if a deal is reached by Wednesday. Iran has temporarily reopened the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping may return to normal soon. Talks are ongoing to resolve the conflict and Iran's nuclear program.
21 ships turned back to Iran since US blockade began, says CENTCOM
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Saturday said that 21 vessels have been compelled to turn back toward Iran since the United States initiated a naval blockade targeting access to Iranian ports amid diplomatic engagements in order to achieve a complete solution to the hostilities in the region.
Mirwaiz of Kashmir supports Pope Leo's stand on war, urges world leaders to unite for justice
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq calls for global religious unity for peace. He praises Pope Leo's stance and urges leaders to speak with one voice. The ongoing turmoil in the Middle East, including Iran, Lebanon, and Palestine, is highlighted. Mirwaiz emphasizes that resolving the Palestinian occupation is crucial for lasting regional peace.
Next round of US-Iran talks likely to be held in Pakistan on Monday: Iranian sources
Iranian and American negotiators are set to meet in Islamabad on Monday. This development signals renewed diplomatic efforts to ease tensions in West Asia. Leaders from Qatar and Turkey have also met Pakistan's Prime Minister, discussing de-escalation. Pakistan's Army Chief recently visited Tehran, aiming to prepare for further talks.
'Closely following situation in West Asia': MEA on Pakistan's role in US-Iran ceasefire
India is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in West Asia. The nation welcomes ceasefires and supports peace initiatives. India will attend international talks on maritime security. Efforts are underway to ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the region. India has facilitated the safe return of over 2,300 individuals. The country also remains committed to its climate change goals.
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Iran's Parliament Speaker credits 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire to 'Hezbollah's steadfastness, unity of Axis of Resistance'
Following the announcement of the 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel by US President Donald Trump, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, MB Ghalibaf, credited the agreement to what he described as the "steadfastness" of Hezbollah and the unity of the so-called "Axis of Resistance".

Iran war should be ending 'pretty soon', claims Trump
US President Donald Trump said in Las Vegas that the war in Iran is progressing “swimmingly” and could end soon. His remarks signal optimism about the conflict’s trajectory, even as tensions persist in the Middle East and uncertainty remains over the timeline and terms of a possible resolution.

Oil Price Today (April 17): Crude oil prices fall on Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, Iran war peace talks. Is the worst over?
Oil prices dipped as Middle East tensions eased with a Lebanon-Israel ceasefire and potential US-Iran talks. President Trump indicated a deal with Iran was close, following a 10-day truce that removes a key obstacle to negotiations. Experts anticipate continued volatility but expect prices to remain supported.

No dates set for second round of Iran-US talks: Pakistan
Pakistan stated no dates are set for a second round of US-Iran talks, amidst reports of ongoing diplomatic exchanges. Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi emphasized the confidential nature of the negotiations, which involved discussions on the nuclear issue and peace in Lebanon. These efforts align with Pakistan's commitment to advancing peace through dialogue and cooperation.

Israel, US goals 'identical'; prepared for any scenario: Benjamin Netanyahu
Prime Minister Netanyahu stated Israel and the US share identical goals regarding Iran, including removing enriched material and halting enrichment capabilities. He also confirmed ongoing negotiations with Lebanon, facilitated by the US, aiming for Hezbollah's disarmament and sustainable peace, while Israeli forces continue operations in southern Lebanon.

US Israel-Iran War Day 47: Pakistan mediation, IMF risk warnings and Trump’s ceasefire optimism drive parallel tracks
Iran War Day 47 Updates: The Iran-Israel war continues with signs of peace talks emerging. US President Donald Trump believes the conflict is nearing its end. Diplomatic efforts are underway between Israel and Lebanon. However, military actions persist, and economic pressures are mounting globally. The core issue of Iran's nuclear program remains a key point of contention. Global powers are engaging to de-escalate the situation.

Pakistan FM Dar dials Wang Yi, exchanges views on US-Iran talks
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke with Pakistan's Ishaq Dar. The top priority is preventing US-Iran conflict escalation in West Asia. Both leaders emphasised dialogue and diplomacy for regional peace. Pakistan's constructive diplomatic role was acknowledged. They discussed a five-point peace initiative.

Hormuz, nukes and 'unreasonable demands' of US: Iran reveals what led to failure of talks in Islamabad
United States and Iran held peace talks in Islamabad. Key issues discussed were the Strait of Hormuz, nuclear preparations, and sanctions. Talks halted without an agreement. Iran stated success depends on avoiding excessive demands. Iran also highlighted ending strikes on Lebanon as a key point.

Iranian President Pezeshkian says Iran entered talks with US with "determination and seriousness"
US-Iran war: In a significant diplomatic move, Iran and the United States are engaged in vital discussions in Islamabad, facilitated by Pakistan as a neutral mediator. These negotiations have now been extended for an additional day, with both parties actively sharing draft agreements despite lingering discrepancies.

Hormuz sees fresh activity: Three oil supertankers appear to make move through strait as US–Iran talks begin
Three oil supertankers are currently navigating the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a potential revival in shipping activity after weeks of disruption. This rise in traffic, involving Chinese and Greek vessels, is crucial for stabilising global oil supply. Meanwhile, delegations from the United States and Iran have arrived in Islamabad for key peace talks focused on sanctions relief and regional security.

Congress questions 'self-declared Vishwaguru's huglomacy' as Pakistan plays mediator between US and Iran
Congress criticizes the government's foreign policy. It questions Pakistan's mediation role between warring countries despite India's efforts. The party highlights a perceived failure in diplomatic strategy. This comes as US Vice President visits Pakistan for talks. India's engagement with the US is also under scrutiny. The Congress seeks clarity on India's gains from its international dealings.

Iran War Day 42 Updates: Mojtaba Khamenei vows restraint; Trump issues a warning on Hormuz as Israel expands Lebanon front
On Day 41, a fragile US-Iran ceasefire faces strain as Israel intensifies operations in Lebanon, issuing an evacuation order for Beirut's southern suburbs. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are accelerating across multiple tracks, including US-UK plans for the Strait of Hormuz and upcoming talks between Israel and Lebanon.

Funding shortfall hits Trump peace board, delays Gaza plan
A crucial plan for Gaza's future faces severe setbacks. Donald Trump's peace initiative has received minimal funds from pledged billions. This lack of financial support prevents the proposed National Committee for the Administration of Gaza from operating. Security concerns also block entry into the territory. Disarmament talks remain stalled, with fears of renewed conflict.

White House was directly involved in shaping Pakistan PM's social media post on Iran: Report
The White House played a direct role in crafting a social media message from Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Sharif requested President Donald Trump to extend a deadline concerning Iran. This move aimed to allow diplomacy to progress. The US and Iran later agreed to a conditional ceasefire.

Gaza marks 6 months of a ceasefire that may offer lessons for the Iran war
Six months after the Gaza ceasefire took effect, fighting has largely reduced but key goals remain unmet, leaving the region in uncertainty. Aid is limited, reconstruction has not begun, and efforts to disarm Hamas or establish governance are stalled, while attention shifts to the Iran war.

Pakistan prepares for US-Iran talks with anxiety
Pakistan is enhancing security for crucial US-Iran peace talks scheduled for this weekend in Islamabad. Tensions are high as Iran warns that Israeli strikes on Lebanon could derail negotiations. Both nations have agreed to a conditional ceasefire. Pakistani leadership is actively mediating to achieve lasting regional peace.

US Stock Market: Oil spike and war risks complicate Fed’s next move
Investors are reassessing US interest rate cuts. A pause in the Iran conflict eased inflation fears, but oil prices remain high. This creates uncertainty for the Federal Reserve's policy. Upcoming inflation data will be crucial. Policymakers are watching for sustained price pressures. Market pricing reflects this evolving situation.

Pakistan Field Asim Munir’s shady deals amid his “mediation” efforts between US-Iran
Pakistan's military chief Asim Munir is reportedly making personal deals under the guise of diplomacy, including the Roosevelt Hotel redevelopment, while the country seeks to mediate between Iran and the US. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif caused an international embarrassment by posting a draft ceasefire deal on social media, a move that overshadowed Egypt's key backchannel role in achieving the ceasefire.

A ceasefire between Iran and US may crown Tehran the region’s next top power
The recent pause in hostilities between the US and Iran signals a remarkable change in the geopolitical landscape. This temporary truce may lead to Iran expanding its influence in the region, with Pakistan emerging as a pivotal mediator in this ceasefire. In light of these developments, India must prioritize securing its energy resources to navigate the uncertain geopolitical climate.

Behind the US-Iran ceasefire: Was it China in the shadows or Pakistan in the spotlight?
Pakistan has emerged as a key player in brokering a US-Iran ceasefire, moving from early mediation to a public appeal that preceded the announcement. While China's influence is acknowledged, Pakistan's sustained diplomatic efforts, culminating in an invitation for talks in Islamabad, suggest a more visible role in securing the two-week truce.

Shehbaz Sharif’s draft tweet scripted by Trump team? Pakistan PM’s 'peace message' draws online mockery
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's draft tweet has sparked debate online. Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif's edited X post, showing a "draft" version, has sparked questions over Pakistan's Iran diplomacy, with many asking if the message was drafted by Trump team. Shehbaz Sharif had urged Donald Trump to extend his deadline on Iran, calling for a diplomatic pause.

Sensex at 30k, crude $300, inflation 19%: Shankar Sharma says he can tolerate anything, but not Pakistan's Iran peace plan success
Investor Shankar Sharma has voiced strong opposition to a Pakistan-led peace initiative concerning the Iran-US-Israel conflict. This comes as Iran has rejected a ceasefire proposal. Tehran has instead put forth its own 10-point plan to end the war. US President Donald Trump has issued a warning regarding potential military action if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened.

'Extremely ambitious and illogical': Iran slams earlier proposed US 15-point peace plan, says it now has its own demands ahead of Trump’s deadline
Iran is making its stance known, turning down the earlier 15-point peace blueprint proposed by the US. Conversely, a prospect for a ceasefire and reopening the critical Strait of Hormuz is on the table with a proposal mediated by Pakistan.
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